Holiday seasons are especially good times for charities to make a pitch for consumers hard earned dollars. Lately, charities have proliferated and it is difficult to make a choice on the best one to donate to.
There are many worthy charities that have been in business for years. There are others that take money every year and are not only unworthy but also benefit the person—the one who organized the scheme.
During the Christmas season people are generally in generous moods and prone to contribute to several charities. Charities, no matter what specific organization, should be carefully checked to insure they are honest and really giving to those they claim to be.
By following a few simple rules, anyone can determine what is simple to insure the charity is worthy. One of the most important tests is to check the true purpose of the charity. Is it to help a group really in need or help the person solely organizing it to not already make money for itself?
Checking the tax records of the newly constructed actual money that comes in is the best test. A good percentage of all assistance, according to administrative and advertising expenses, is a good test. The charity should not spend more than one half the money it collects to obtain more contributions. Those charities that do probably have other ideas in mind than helping the needy.
Any reputable charity will also be willing to send financial statements and reports upon request. Others cannot be solicited by mail through an emotional approach to promote financial aid. Another good indication of the financial position of the organization. Any group that won’t send financial information when requested probably isn’t on the level.
Also check into this information to see why controls the money in the charity. Often a charity will have a very dominant board which will allocate funds without mixing doing along by the officials of the organization. Volunteers are less susceptible to the desires of creating a monetary gain for themselves.
Be especially careful of charities that send notices that look like bills. Often an unthinking consumer will pay, feeling he incurred obligation at some earlier time. Other charities have been known to send free gifts as an inducement to contribute. The person who receives a gift is under absolutely no obligation to contribute.
These premium techniques are used by many dishonest charities in an attempt to get the receiver to donate something. Giving money to a group like this will only perpetuate their activities.
Another way to check the honesty of a specific organization is to see if they are registered with the Better Business Bureau. The BBB usually has information about the goals and actions of various charitable organizations. Following these guidelines will help stretch the money you donate so it can do the most good for the most people.